Europe

WFM publishes many books pertaining to our work at the International Secretariat. Whether you want an overview of the history of World Federalism or an in depth analysis of the key issues pertaining to one of our projects, WFM’s publications make great references. The Center for UN Reform Education also has many relevant publications available for purchase.

LEARN FROM SCOTLAND, RELAUNCH FEDERALISM AT EUROPEAN AND NATIONAL LEVEL

The victory of the "NO" in the referendum on Scotland's independence saves the United Kingdom and it avoids the risk of triggering a process of subsequent secessions in other European countries that would be disruptive not only for such countries, but also for Europe's stability and integration.

The result of the referendum can't and won't put an end to the legitimate aspirations of Scotland and other European regions to self-government and their demands for political decisions close to the citizens and respectful of the diversity of European regions.

"European nation states are increasingly in crisis. They are too small, too weak and still too little integrated to play an effective role in a globalised world, deliver solutions for the economic crisis and contribute to solving the security challenges at Europe's borders. At the same time, some of them are too centralised and dysfunctional to manage the economic, political and cultural diversity of their regions and satisfy their demands for closer accountability of political decisions", declares Paolo Vacca, Secretary-General of the Union of European Federalists, in response to the results of the referendum.

"The creation of more 'micro-states', with their illusion of independence and sovereignty, is not the solution: it would bring only instability at national and European level. There is just a progressive answer: to relaunch federalism, both at national and at European level. The two trends must go together. Without progress to federalism at national level, member states will continue fostering frustration and separatism in Europe's regions. Without a progress to a federal Europe, particularly in the Euro-zone, EU members states would lack the economic and political stability necessary to face a debate on their constitutional re-organisation and they would ultimately fail the broader economic and political challenges they are facing."

Europe needs unity in diversity, strong central governments with strong local governments, at national and European level. This is exactly what federalism can offer to Europe today.

Restraining the veto

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“We have nothing to lose except everything. So let's go ahead. This is the wager of our generation. If we are to fail, it is better, in any case, to have stood on the side of those who choose life than on the side of those who are destroying it.”

Albert Camus, Author

"Unless some effective supranational government can be set up and brought quickly into action, the prospects of peace and human progress are dark and doubtful."

Winston Churchill, British Prime Minister

"There must be, not a balance of power, but a community of power; not organized rivalries, but an organized common peace."

President Woodrow Wilson

"World federation is an idea that will not die. More and more people are coming to realize that peace must be more than an interlude if we are to survive; that peace is a product of law and order; that law is essential if the force of arms is not to rule the world."

William O. Douglas, Former U.S. Supreme Court Justice

“Science has made unrestricted national sovereignty incompatible with human survival. The only possibilities are now world government or death.”

Bertrand Russell, Philosopher

"Few organisations have sustained for so long the ambition of a better world, united in peace and committed to the ideals of the United Nations. In particular, WFM's support for the International Criminal Court has been critical in building a constituency of civil society and government actors engaged in the pursuit of justice. 10 years into that effort, WFM has much to celebrate."

Hon. Louise Arbour C.C., G.O.Q., President and CEO of International Crisis Group

“A federation of all humanity, together with a sufficient means of social justice to ensure health, education, and a rough equality of opportunity, would mean such a release and increase of human energy as to open a new phase in human history.”

H.G. Wells, Author

“For nearly five decades the World Federalists have worked to promote a strengthened UN and more effective institutions of global governance. I offer my personal endorsement. Now a great opportunity has opened for the realization of the dreams of the UN's founders.”

Walter Cronkite, Broadcast journalist

“There is no salvation for civilization, or even the human race, other than the creation of a world government.”

Albert Einstein, Scientist

"Your Movement has helped keep alive for fifty years the values which inspired the creation of the United Nations: the vision of a world prepared to act together against armed aggression, social ills and global threats, and united in its promotion of economic and social progress for all."

Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan

“The work of the CICC, with like-minded states from around the world is a testament to what can be ac¬complished when civil society and governments work in partnership to bring about dramatic change.”

Jody Williams, Nobel Peace Laureate

"I send my very best wishes to all of you as you continue your important work in support of peace, justice and equality for all. Your credibility is well established and your voice is more important than ever in a world of increasing inequalities, continued injustices, and emerging conflicts. I believe as you do in the mobilization of civil society actors who exercise their fundamental right to participate in their own governance.”

The Honorable Louise Arbour

“I have great regard for the World Federalist Movement's efforts to advance international justice, human rights, peace and security, the freedom of expression, and sustainable development around the world. “